Lightning head coach takes credit away from the Leafs after epic comeback win in OT

In years past, having a 4-1 lead for the Lightning with 10 minutes to play would have been as close to a guaranteed win as you'd get. Unfortunately, the wheels fell off last night and not only did they give up 3 goals in 6 minutes to the Leafs, they lost about 4 minutes into overtime. That was the second time in two games the Leafs tied the game late and won in OT and now the Buds hold a commanding 3-1 series lead heading back to Toronto for Game 5 Thursday night.

Once again however, following the game, Jon Cooper was up to his usual tricks with the media. When asked about the blown lead, Cooper did his best to subtly take credit away from the Leafs while giving them a slight compliment. "Did we play not to lose? Guys were trying, there was just a little bit of a mindset that we would just close this one out, but obviously Toronto had different ideas. Good for them it's tough to come back on the road and we have to give them credit."

Being a former lawyer, Cooper has always been very good at choosing his words and manipulating the media and their headlines, especially during the playoffs. In the past it has worked, but it does not appear to have worked this time around as Sheldon Keefe has not bit and instead has done the same thing to even the playing field for the Leafs.

To hear Cooper's full comments, check out the link below: